Ullswater
The Lake District
Ullswater is the second largest lake in the Lake District and is around 7.5miles in length. It is arguably the most picturesque of all the lakes in the Lake District with its impressive natural and unspoilt views. Ullswater was formed following the last ice age as the glaciers gouged out the valley floor and filled with meltwater; some areas of the lake are as deep as 250ft.
The impressive views that Ullswater has to offer attracts visitors all year round and is equally as beautiful in the Summer as it is in the Winter. It has something to offer everyone; you can relax and enjoy the scenery whilst on the Ullswater Steamer from Pooley Bridge to Glenridding (or vice versa); or maybe you’d prefer sailing, canoeing, fishing, or even wild swimming. Ullswater is also in close proximity to Helvellyn if an adventurous and challenging hike is your thing, which also offers stunning views of the lake itself. If you needed any other reason to visit, then very close to the lake, you’ll find a stunning and impressive high force waterfall called Aira Force, which is free to visit (parking charges apply).
Prices
Free to visit the lake and enjoy the scenery, but activities will cost. Click on the links below to find out specific prices for each activity:
- Ullswater Steamer
- Glenridding Sailing Centre (Sailing, Kayak, Canoe)
- Lakeland Boat Hire (Motor Boat, Luxury Boat, Rowing Boat, Canoe – fishing allowed on some)
Parking
There are a number of laybys surrounding Ullswater where you can park for free to take in the impressive scenery, if it’s just the view you’re looking for. Or there are a few car parks located near points of interest.
Car park near Pooley Bridge (Eusemere) – postcode: CA10 2NE. Eusemere is located a short distance from the Ullswater Steamer and Lakeland Boat Hire. Public toilets are available at this car park and parking charges apply every day between the hours of 9am-6pm. Prices are as follows:
- Up to 2 hours – £3
- Up to 4 hours – £5
- All day – £8
- No coach parking
Car park near Glenridding (Beckside) – postcode: CA11 0PD. Beckside car park is around a 5-minute walk to Glenridding Sailing Centre and a great starting point to climb Helvellyn. You’ll find a visitor centre and public toilets at this car park. Parking charges apply every day between the hours of 9am-6pm. Prices are as follows:
- Up to 2 hours – £3
- 3 hours – £4.20
- 4 hours – £5.40
- 5 hours – £6.60
- 9 hours – £8
- Electric car charging points are also available (charges apply).
